Author: Jane Simon Ammeson

Jane Simon Ammeson is a freelance writer who specializes in travel, food and personalities. She writes frequently for The Times of Northwest Indiana, Mexico Connect, Long Weekends magazine, Edible Michiana, Lakeland Boating, Food Wine Travel magazine , Lee Publications, and the Herald Palladium where she writes a weekly food column. Her TouchScreenTravels include Indiana's Best. She also writes a weekly book review column for The Times of Northwest Indiana as well as food and travel, has authored 16 books including Lincoln Road Trip: The Back-road Guide to America's Favorite President, a winner of the Lowell Thomas Journalism Award in Travel Books, Third Place and also a Finalist for the 2019 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards in the Travel category. Her latest books are America's Femme Fatale: The Story of Serial Killer Belle Gunness and Classic Restaurants of Northwest Indiana. Her other books include How to Murder Your Wealthy Lovers and Get Away with It, A Jazz Age Murder in Northwest Indiana and Murders That Made Headlines: Crimes of Indiana, all historic true crime as well Hauntings of the Underground Railroad: Ghosts of the Midwest, Brown County, Indiana and East Chicago. Jane’s base camp is Stevensville, Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan. Follow Jane at facebook.com/janesimonammeson; twitter.com/hpammeson; https://twitter.com/janeammeson1; twitter.com/travelfoodin, instagram.com/janeammeson/ and on her travel and food blog janeammeson.com and book blog: shelflife.blog/

2025 Bourbon Classic Tickets Are Now LIVE!

Historic foodways, Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville

Having a great time attending last year’s Bourbon Classic, I was more than happy to hear that weekend tickets are now on sale for the 2025 annual celebration of the best of the best in Bourbon, culinary and cocktails after shattering attendance records in 2024.

Tickets are available at BourbonClassic.com. The event will be held February 19 – 22, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky.

The 2025 Bourbon Classic weekend events will take place at the Kentucky International Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown Louisville, an easy walking distance to the nearby urban distilleries.

EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN BOURBON

The Bourbon Classic weekend promises an unforgettable experience for Bourbon lovers. Signature events include:

  • Cocktail and Culinary Challenge (Friday, February 21) – Witness the masters at work as bartenders create exquisite Bourbon cocktails paired with delicious Bourbon-inspired cuisine from the region’s top chefs.
  • Bourbon University (Saturday, February 22) – Deepen your Bourbon knowledge with industry experts leading discussions, demonstrations, and tastings.
  • TASTE (Saturday, February22) – The grand finale features tastings from top Bourbon brands, delectable food pairings from featured restaurants, and unique Bourbon-inspired products.

ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE IN 2025

  • Early Entry for VIP: VIP ticket holders will now enjoy early access to the Amber Lounge, allowing them to get a head start on exploring the exclusive VIP tastings and experiences before doors open to the main event.
  • Speedier Entry: All ticket holders can look forward to enhanced procedures to minimize wait times and get into the Bourbon fun faster.
  • Expanded Bottle Sales: Attendees can look forward to an enhanced bottle sales experience.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Classic back to the KICC and continue providing an intimate, top-shelf experience for all. We’re proud of our partnership with the Bourbon and hospitality industries, and excited for the future!”

 – Bourbon Classic co-founder Seth Thompson

The Bourbon Classic is operated by Tony Butler of FSA Management Group and The Bourbon Review’s Seth Thompson.

EVENT DETAILS AND TICKETS

Tickets for the 2025 Bourbon Classic weekend events are available for purchase now at BourbonClassic.com. Information about additional events will be announced soon.

PARTNERING HOTEL (Preferred Rate)

A preferred rate is available at the Louisville Marriott Downtown, 280 W. Jefferson St. The hotel is a short walk to the weekend venue, the Kentucky International Convention Center. The terrific downtown location is in close range to Whiskey Row, dining, and major visitor experiences. CLICK HERE to access the preferred rate.

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Founded in 2012 by FSA Management Group and The Bourbon Review, Bourbon Classic brings together the best of the Bourbon and culinary worlds through a collection of rare, interactive events. Infused with exceptional tastings, workshops and unrivaled sips, these events are sure to thrill any Bourbon connoisseur and enthusiast. Bourbon Classic events will take place February 19 – 22, 2025, in Louisville, the gateway to all the heritage and innovation of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country. Information is available at https://www.bourbonclassic.com.

2024 Field to Vase Dinner $50 Discount

Elegant dining, Gourmet, Michigan Wines, Uncategorized, winery

The Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC) is thrilled to announce a second partnership with Certified American Grown for the 2024 Field to Vase Dinner at Creekside Growers in Middleville, Michigan on Saturday, September 15.

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Creekside Growers, this Field to Vase Dinner promises to be an unforgettable evening celebrating the artistry of local wine paired with the beauty of locally grown flowers, the bounty of Michigan’s agriculture, and the culinary delights that highlight the best of local produce. Guests will dine amidst the blooming fields, enjoying a farm-to-table meal that showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Farmhouse Deli. Photo courtesy of Farmhouse Deli.

Michigan Wine Collaborative member wineries Modales, Domaine Berrien, and MAWBY will be providing the wines for the dinner. prepared by Chef Christine Ferris of Farmhouse Deli in Douglas, Michigan.  Guests will delight in a curated menu that emphasizes local and sustainable ingredients, and of course expertly paired with local and sustainable wines.

https://lpwines.com/The featured wines are produced with 100% Michigan fruit grown in Southwest Michigan by Modales from the Fennville AVA along with Domaine Berrien in the Lake Michigan Shore AVA and MAWBY representing the Leelanau Peninsula AVA.

Southwest Michigan is home to two of the state’s AVAs with Fennville being the oldest AVA in Michigan and the third to be established in the United States. Modales calls Fennville home. Their commitment to sustainable and regenerative agriculture and to the people who make the finished wines possible shine through in each glass of wine produced on the estate.

Their neighbors to the south, Domaine Berrien, are the first and only Rhone Rangers not only in the Lake Michigan Shore AVA but the entire Midwest. Specializing in the Rhone Valley varietals, Syrah, Viognier, Rousanne, and Marsanne, Domaine Berrien also hosts a wide array of vinifera and hybrid varieties.

Representing Leelanau Peninsula AVA is another significant producer, MAWBY, who planted its first vines in 1973. MAWBY is the authority on sparkling wine production in Michigan. For 50 years MAWBY has helped Michigan sparkle. With an emphasis on classic production techniques, sustainable farming methods and quality customer service.

These three producers are coming together to provide a variety of wines for Field to Vase that will represent the diversity and prestige of the Michigan wine industry. Just like the flowers and the food, the wine will be 100% local as well as expertly paired.

“This collaboration of agriculture, artistry, and passion will prove to be a vibrant experience that guests of the dinner will cherish for years to come.” Says Emily Dockery, Executive Director of the Michigan Wine Collaborative, “We hope that these guests will form an emotional connection with Michigan wine that inspires them into planning trips to Michigan wine country regularly and emboldens them to demand local wines at their favorite wine shops, retailers, and restaurants.”

Tickets for the Field to Vase Dinner at Creekside Growers are limited and expected to sell out quickly. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Eventbrite page.

About Certified American Grown. Certified American Grown is a diverse community of cut flower and foliage farmers from across the

United States. As the voice for domestic farms, CAG works towards sustainability and prosperity through a unified voice, effective advocacy, and strategic promotion. Certified American Grown flower and foliage farms participate in an independent, third-party supply-chain audit to verify both origin and assembly of the flowers and foliage grown. When it appears on bouquets, bunches, packaging or signage, the iconic brand mark instills consumer confidence in place of origin. For more information about Certified American Grown, visit americangrownflowers.org.

The Michigan Wine Collaborative is the voice of the Michigan wine industry. Our mission is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine industry by supporting wineries, growers, and other businesses and individuals connected to the industry – today and for future generations.

For media inquiries and more information, contact us by reaching out to info@michiganwinecollaborative.com or send us a message on social media.

Special savings of $50 on the dinner.

Voting Michigan Wine Collaborative Members and Premium Vintage Michigan members are eligible for exclusive discounts on admission to the dinner. Those members will be emailed instructions for purchasing discounted tickets. Feel free to CONTACT US for that code or Join MWC OR Vintage Michigan to unlock benefits and discounts all year long!

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Article: People Are Driving an Hour From San Francisco for This California Grocery Store

California, California Wine, Desserts, Gastronomy, Gourmet

People Are Driving an Hour From San Francisco for This California Grocery Store https://flip.it/RCpUzH

Article: Alabama Peach Bombs

Uncategorized

Alabama Peach Bombs https://flip.it/J7ZemC

Fairbanks: A Prime Destination for Aurora Viewing

Adventure, Alaska, Aurora, Fairbanks, Family Excursions, Uncategorized

The highly anticipated Aurora Season in Fairbanks begins on August 21, once again offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights. Spanning August 21 to April 21, this eight-month viewing period allows countless opportunities to experience the aurora borealis in all its glory.

Aurora Season in Fairbanks is consistent each year due to the area’s prime location under the Auroral Oval, where aurora activity is concentrated. This advantageous position ensures that Fairbanks remains one of the best places on Earth to view the northern lights, regardless of the solar cycle.

The solar cycle, which spans approximately 11 years, influences the level of activity on the sun’s surface, including sunspots. These sunspots are closely tied to aurora activity. During the solar maximum, when sunspot activity peaks, there is an increase in aurora displays at lower latitudes, such as the northern part of the Lower 48. Conversely, during the solar minimum, when sunspot activity is low, aurora visibility is generally confined to areas under the Auroral Oval, such as Fairbanks.

Fairbanks’ location under the Auroral Oval means that any aurora activity, even at the lowest levels, is visible here, making Fairbanks a top destination for aurora viewing.

Explore Fairbanks invites travelers from around the world to experience the magic of Aurora Season. With the return of the aurora borealis, visitors can expect unforgettable experiences, from guided aurora tours to cozy accommodations offering prime viewing opportunities.

Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or a first-time visitor, Fairbanks offers the perfect backdrop for witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. Plan your visit today and prepare to be captivated by the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska.

About Explore Fairbanks

Explore Fairbanks is a non-profit marketing and management organization whose mission is to be an economic driver in the Fairbanks region by marketing to potential visitors, optimizing the visitor experience and advocating for a thriving year-round visitor industry. Explore Fairbanks markets Fairbanks as a year-round destination by promoting local events, attractions and activities to independent travellers, group tour operators, travel agents, meeting planners and the media as well as by developing public policy and infrastructure to achieve marketing objectives. Find out more at explorefairbanks.com

Photo caption: In October 2018, as the solar minimum approached, the aurora borealis shines above Golden Heart Plaza, illuminating the heart of downtown Fairbanks, Alaska. (©State of Alaska-Jody Overstreet)

FOX 59 Indianapolis: Indy pizza joint named 2nd best in the Midwest, according to Yelp

Chicago Restaurant Week, Chicago restaurants, Indianapolis, Italian Cuisine, Pizza

https://fox59.com/indiana-news/indy-pizza-joint-named-2nd-best-in-the-midwest-according-to-yelp/

Article: Move Over Chichen Itza! This Mayan Ruin Is Bigger & Opening For Tourists This Fall

Yucatan

Move Over Chichen Itza! This Mayan Ruin Is Bigger & Opening For Tourists This Fall https://flip.it/1fZroy

Join me at Forever Books on August 15 at 6:30

Book events, Book signings, Books, Historic foodways

I will giving a talk and signing copies of my books tomorrow at Forever Books in downtown St. Joseph at 6:30 EST.

Among the books I’ll be talking about is Classic Restaurants of Michiana. Here is what my publisher wrote about it:

“Once a stagecoach stop, The Old Tavern Inn has been open since the time of President Andrew Jackson. Tosi’s is known for its gorgeous starlit garden and gastronomic traditions stretching back almost a century, and The Volcano was amongst the first pizzerias in the country. These restaurants and other classic eateries remain part of the thriving local food scene. But the doors of others have long been closed. Some like Mead’s Chicken Nook and Robertson’s Tea Room linger in memories while The Owl Saloon, O. A. Clark’s Lunch Rooms, and Lobster Lounge are long lost to time.

“Award-winning author Jane Simon Ammeson leads a culinary road trip through Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan.”

I’ll also be discussing America’s Femme Fatale: The Story of Serial Killer Belle Gunness, a true crime story that took place in LaPorte, Indiana back around the turn of the last century.

Other books are:

Experience the Magic of Zicasso’s 14-Day Inspired by the Olympics Tour of France

France, Gourmet, Historic foodways, Zicasso, Zicasso Tour

Millions of viewers tuned in to watch scores of people line the banks of the Seine River to witness the first floating parade of nations, the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron in the Jardin des Tuileries, and televised segments spanning French culture and craftsmanship. In honor of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, luxury travel company Zicasso is thrilled to announce their latest customizable 14-day Highlights of France tour.

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The itinerary seamlessly blends the excitement of the Olympic spirit with the timeless allure of France’s most iconic destinations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and luxury without the Olympic-sized crowds. From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil vineyards of Bordeaux, and the sun-drenched coastline of the South of France, each day will immerse travelers in the rich heritage that will be on full display.

Prices for this 14-day itinerary through France start at $9,795 per person and includes stops in:

Paris – The Heart of French Culture

Courtesy of By ASaber91 commons.wikimedia.org/
  • Arrival in Paris with a private transfer to your 4-star accommodation;
  • Taste authentic food products at local markets and enjoy a private cooking class;
  • Explore France’s legendary craftsmanship at the famed haute-couture stores along the Champs-Élysées, including Louis Vuitton, the maker of the 2024 Olympic Medal Trunk, Torch Trunk, and the Medal Trays for the medal ceremonies;
  • Discover the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral (pending availability during continued restoration work) and the artistic treasures of the Louvre on a private tour.

Bordeaux – The Wine Lover’s Paradise

Photo courtesy of winetourism.com
  • Begin to unwind in Bordeaux with a soothing Vinotherapy spa experience, using enriched spring water, healthy minerals, and grape extract;
  • Wine-tasting tours in Margaux, St Julien, and the UNESCO-listed vineyards of St. Emilion;
  • Learn the intricacies of wine production with a private guide, complemented by wine and cheese tastings.

Lyon – Gastronomic and Historical Splendor

  • Discover Lyon, famed for its Roman ruins, medieval architecture, gastronomy;
  • Experience a VIP wine-tasting extravaganza across charming villages like Vienne and Condrieu;
  • Embark on a private food tour to sample Lyon’s world-renowned culinary delights.

Nice and the French Riviera – Coastal Elegance

Photo courtesy of Cannes Tourism.
  • Explore Nice and its picturesque Mediterranean setting;
  • Take Day trips to Cannes, Saint Paul-de-Vence, and Antibes;
  • Indulge in the opulence of Monaco, with visits to Monte-Carlo Casino and scenic city tours;
  • Conclude with a final wine-tasting tour in the Provencal countryside before departure.
Courtesy of Saint Paul De Vence

With the global spotlight on France during the Olympics, interest in visiting the cities and countryside locations is sure to reach new traveling audiences. This itinerary not only showcases Zicasso’s carefully curated trip planning, but also offers an unparalleled experience that continues the celebration of France’s culture and heritage beyond the Olympic Games.

Priced at $9,795 per person, the 14-day Highlights of France tour as described includes premium accommodations, meals as listed, guided tours and tastings, as well as all ground transfers (international airfare is not included). As with all Zicasso itineraries, this itinerary can be completely customized to an individual traveler’s interests or needs.

For more information about this itinerary, please visit https://www.zicasso.com/i/france/highlights-france-tour-paris-bordeaux-lyon-nice

This August Join Journeyman’s Meet the Makers Series

Distiller Spirits, Distilleries, Journeyman Distillery, The American Factory

MEET THE MAKERS SERIES

WHERE: The American Factory 258 S Campbell St, Valparaiso IN 46385 

TIME: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm 

TICKETS: Free, Available Here.

DETAILS: Discover the unique heritage behind Journeyman Distillery at their Meet the Makers series, a FREE educational event hosted at The American Factory. Hosted on select Saturdays, guests will have the opportunity to meet the talented team at Journeyman and learn the art of distilling, cocktail creation, scratch cooking, and craft brewing and sample some of Journeyman’s award-winning spirits and cocktails. Upcoming Meet the Makers sessions in August include: 

  •  Cocktail Creation with Daniel Lagestee, Tish Wlodarkczyk, and Bill and Johanna Welter on August 10th
  • Distilling with Jacob Rippetoe and Bill and Johanna Welter on August 17th 

DIRTY BOOTS COUNTRY NIGHT 

DATE: August 17

WHERE: The American Factory 258 S Campbell St, Valparaiso IN 46385 

TIME: 6:00 pm – 12:00 am

TICKETS: $25/per person, Available Here.

DETAILS: Giddy up boys and girls! Grab your cowboy boots and hats and head over to The American Factory for an evening of dancing, cocktails, and live country music. Hosted in the campus’ East Room, come dressed in your best Western attire and enjoy line dancing lessons and live country music from Steel Country. Tickets are $25/person and include admission to the event, complimentary line dancing instruction, a welcome cocktail, and a drink ticket.   

SATURDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES 

DATE: Weekly on Saturday

TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 pm

WHERE: The American Factory 258 S Campbell St, Valparaiso IN 46385 

DETAILS: Head over to The American Factory’s outdoor courtyard to enjoy FREE live music every Saturday night. Grab your friends and family to enjoy the warm summer weather and support local music acts like Pablo Balldetti, Marco Villarreal, Sarah Archer, Ric Fierabracci, and Frank Rovolli. 

POLYNESIAN CHEF’S DINNER 

DATE: August 23rd

WHERE: The Featherbone Factory 109 Generations Dr, Three Oaks, MI 49128

TIME: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm 

TICKETS: $45/person, available here. 

DETAILS: Escape to a tropical paradise at Journeyman’s Polynesian Dinner, the latest installment of their Chef Dinner Series. Chef Amanda Salas is dishing out a flavorful lineup of island-inspired dishes paired with cocktails made with Journeyman’s award-winning spirits. The team will be setting up a variety of buffets including a Polynesian Pig Buffet with hearty offerings like Roasted Pork Loin with roasted pineapple and Pulled Pork served with Polynesian barbecue sauce and Hawaiian Rolls and a cold buffet with sides like Shrimp Poke and Tropical Fruit Salad. For dessert, indulge in a variety of delectable sweets like Pina Colada Panna Cotta and Chocolate Macadamia Nut Tarts. Tickets are $45/person and can be purchased here.